China’s AFL link was established when the Melbourne Demons introduced its China Strategy designed to increase links with the Chinese community in Melbourne and promote interest in the game abroad.

The strategy gave two Chinese players, Zhao Wei and Zhao Yong Gen, the opportunity to train in Australia with the Melbourne Football Club on a two-week pre-season development scholarship.

The city of Tianjin has announced it is investing $1.5 million to develop an Australian football ground, and it is hoped that an exhibition match will be played at the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai.

Footy has caught on rapidly in schools and universities, and the Chinese Red Demons competed in their first International Cup in 2008.